Posts Tagged ‘sinus problems’

If you ever experienced with some types of sinus problems before, you can probably understand the extreme pain and discomfort this illness can cause.

Your nose will most likely become stuffy which can disrupt your normal breathing. This may also contribute to poor sleeping pattern until you recover from your respiratory issues.

While there are many sinusitis treatment medications available to ease your disorder, the best method that I am going to recommend to you is to prevent it with cold and flu remedies.

This is because if you fail to fight the common cold they can irritate your nasal or sinus lining leading to swelling and inflammation.

Your immune system will start to activate by secreting excess mucus as a way to protect your body.

As a result your nasal and sinus passage become congested leading to pressure built-up which can cause many types of sinus symptoms such as runny nose, headache, nasal drip, watery eyes, fever and other sinus pain.

If you are susceptible to cold every winter or change in season then you will need to come up with a preventive measure that works for you.

Listed below are some natural cold and flu remedies to prevent sinus disorders.

Consume Plenty Of Vegetables

Fresh fruits and vegetables as well as whole grains have high minerals and antioxidants content that are beneficial for building a healthy immune system.

Vegetables such as onion and garlic possess anti-microbial properties to kill germs and bacterial. Garlic in particular is renowned to help prevent the common winter cold.

Adding slices of ginger and chili into your cooking do speed up your immune response during the cooler months.

Increase Vitamin D

It is important that you have adequate levels of Vitamin D as it may help to improve your immunity in order to prevent cold. Ideally you should take it all through winter.

Studies have shown that people with low Vitamin D are more prone to upper respiratory tract infections compare to those with high levels.

As it is a fat soluble vitamin, you may not get enough or missing out on D if you eat only "low fat" foods.

Fish, morning sunlight and dairy products fortified with D are some of the best sources.

You can also obtain naturally from egg yolks and cod liver oil. Sometimes you may need to take supplements to reach the optimal level of at least 1000 IU per day.

Protein Intake

Protein helps to keep our body strong and healthy. Adequate protein intake may boost the production of antibodies to help fight infections and viruses.

The easy to get enough of this is from animal sources such as fish, eggs, red meat, poultry and dairy products.

If you are too busy, a brief walk around your neighborhood is better than doing nothing at all. Walking the dog or doing housework such as cleaning, vacuuming or dusting may also help because you are moving your body muscle all the time.

Many people who suffer from some types of sinus conditions are more likely to look for ways to find relieve.

Your first line of action is to treat your cold symptoms immediately and to find an effective remedy to improve sinus drainage before your nasal or sinus becomes infected.

While researching for a better way to solve various upper respiratory symptoms I have come across many different treatment options ranging from conventional to natural treatments.

You have to keep in mind that your goal for setting up an effective treatment plan is to treat the cause and not the symptoms to achieve a long term success rate.

One quick way to relieve these common problems or on-going for some is to take chemical drugs.

While many over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription drugs work to reduce the symptoms they tend to return once you stop taking the medications.

But I have also heard many positive results using this pathway and if it does response well for you then by all means go for it.

Another great method is to use herbs to treat and clear your sinus congestion and infection which is what this topic is all about.

Herbs in particular have been used for centuries to heal all types of illnesses. There are herbs for headache, urinary tract infection, acne, skin disease, stress, fertility etc…

Herbal concoction and warm drinks such as tea or broth do play a role in healing the mucus lining and improve blood vessels in the cavities.

You are likely to suffer mild or no side effects unlike some medications.

Herbal remedies for sinus can be classified as anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, expectorant, decongestant and immune herbs.

The best approach is to treat the cause of most problems by using single or combination of herbs in tea, tablets, capsules or tincture.

Our aim here is to reduce congestion, inflammation, dry and clear excess mucus, stop infection, boosts the immune system and all other sinus related issues.

Once you get this step right your body will heal itself naturally and hopefully to keep them at bay.

So what are the common herbs for sinus problems?

One well-known herb that has been used to treat this condition is Eucalyptus.

This antiseptic and expectorant plant is a popular remedy for cold, infection and sore throats. It works by shrinking the swollen tissues that lined the nasal passages and sinuses.

The oil itself is used with hot steam as an inhalant to reduce both sinus and chest congestion whereas the leaves are steeped in hot water and drink as tea.

You can also blend with a carrier oil to make sinus rub.

Peppermint

Peppermint is another herb that is often drunk as tea to calm irritated nasal membrane. The leaves are steep in hot water for 10 minutes to release the menthol oil which has a strong decongestant effect.

Another popular application is to add few drops of the volatile oil in hot water and breathe the vapor to reduce stuffy nose.

Echinacea Roots

Echinacea is known as the cold and flu herb. This native American herbs when taken orally help to resist infection and stimulate the immune system.

Good quality Echinacea has a light tingling characteristic. Try chewing the roots and if you can't handle this sensation the good news is they are available as tablets or capsules.

During the onset of upper respiratory illness you should increase the dosage such as taking 4-6 tablets per day and decrease after the third or fourth day.

And when combine with Andrographis it can speed up your recovery process.

Ginger

Ginger is a warm herb that contains several pungent principles. This anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial herb are often taken for sinus related headache and congestion.

Slices of ginger can be steeped in hot water for few minutes and drink as tea to warm the body and decongest stuffy nose by thinning and loosen thick mucus.

Alternatively you can add them into clear chicken broth or make into a compress.

The volatile ginger oil blend can be use to rub or massage around the sinus region to soothe inflamed cavities and reduce pain.

Golden Seal

Studies have shown that the root of Goldenseal with its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties in Berberine has the power to reduce congestion and fight infection.

This herb taste extremely bitter and it is often taken in small quantity by adding few drops of the tincture into a glass of water or juice.

A combination of Goldenseal and Echinacea herbs do work wonders by preventing your nasal from drying out.

Adding few drops into your nasal wash can also reduce sinus infection. You can also use Barberry to fight infection if Goldenseal is not available.

Elderberry

The antiviral and antibacterial properties of Elderberry have been known to reduce pain, infection and to strengthen the immune system.

It alleviates runny nose by drying out liquid mucus.

The berries with their high vitamin C content are made into cold syrup and given to children compared to other cold and flu preparations.

Fenugreek

Fenugreek is a strong astringent herb used to relieve and loosen tight airways. It is especially beneficial for reducing mucus-forming conditions, such as nasal stuffiness and pressure built-up in the cavities.

Other uses include relieving cough, post nasal drip and to breakup trapped mucus in the chest.

Juniper

The aromatic juniper berries have been used as medicine for centuries. The anti-bacterial chemicals in the oil provide therapeutic effect when added into nasal spray or as an inhalant.

Myrrh

Myrrh is a century old remedies used traditionally to treat a wide range of diseases such as throat infections, colds, coughs and mouth ulcer. The astringent, anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties help stimulates the immune system to produce white blood cells to fight infection.

Cayenne

The capsaicin in cayenne pepper is responsible for reducing swelling and inflammation, congestion and to promote drainage. One downside is the pepper has a burning sensation to touch and taste.

This natural high vitamins stimulant is capable of thinning mucus in the nasal passages to increase breathing and improve circulation.

However it is not easy to take this herb, one way is to mix a pinch of the hot powder with 2 tablespoon of Manuka honey or in a cup of hot water with honey added.

Licorice

Licorice root is renowned for its ability to soothe inflamed membrane, break up thick mucus, kill bacteria and reduce congestion when taken as tea or capsules. It is also an immunity herb for simulating your weak immune system.

Well herbal remedies are not the only natural way to eliminate your nasal and sinus issues, there are certain foods that you eat which may also contribute or aggravate your conditions by increasing mucus production.

Besides healing with herbal remedies it is important that you rinse your nasal cavities to expel as much mucus as possible to promote normal breathing. To do this you can use a saline spray or an irrigation device.

The above are just some of the popular herbs that have been used by many sufferers to treat sinus at home, however, if you do come across herbs that nobody knows and you manage to find relieve in a short period of time share it with us.

Majority of the symptoms can be treated using natural or home remedies but if the infection is caused by bacteria then you may need antibiotics.

The first step to prevent an infection is to treat the cold symptoms. The moment you show signs it is important to find an effective method to clear sinus congestion.

If this step is carried out successfully you will soon find relief and perhaps prevent sinusitis from recurring.

Home remedies for sinus infection can be products or certain techniques that you can find and use in the comfort of your home environment.

Let's start with herbs.

Herbal Remedies

There are some herbs that are found in the kitchen or garden that can actually reduce infection or at least stop them from spreading. But not all pt them are suitable and those that do usually possess antiseptic, anti-microbial, anti-bacterial and decongestant properties.

Eucalyptus and lemon balm are used for their antibacterial and expectorants properties meaning they are able to reduce mucus.

Garlic, a natural antibiotic that is popularly used in the kitchen is one of the best. The active component Allicin has been known to kill bacteria, boosts the immune system and prevent infection.

This natural herb does not interfere with the flora in your intestine unlike prescription antibiotics which tend to kill the good and bad.

Eating raw garlic is the best way to fight infection but if you dislike the taste they are available as tablets and capsules.

Ginger is another herb which you can use by steeping thin slices in hot water for 10 minutes and drink it as tea. Inhaling the warm vapors can also relieve pain and pressure.

Alkylamides found in the roots of Echinacea may help to reduce the period of cold symptoms and viruses attacking the upper respiratory tract.

Fenugreek and horseradish are also beneficial to dry up mucus and relieve sinus pressure.

Golden Seal an anti-microbial and immune booster herb is also beneficial for your respiratory conditions.

Essential Oil

Oil extracted from herbal plants has played an important role in our lives to treat many health issues from relieving headache, toothache to sinus problems.

Oregano oil with its anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties has been used to treat sinusitis. Add 1 to 2 drops in water or juice and drink it several times a day until your condition has improved.

Another usage is to mix few drops with a carrier oil and massage or rub it directly at the opening of your nose and above your eyes. You can also use peppermint oil to break up mucus.

Manuka Honey

Honey is known to have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiviral and antiseptic effect which is ideal for your sinus infection. Just take a teaspoon of New Zealand Manuka honey each morning until you see signs of improvement.

Alternate way is to make a nose drop solution by adding a teaspoon of honey into a cup of hot distilled water followed by quarter teaspoon of salt and mixed them. With an eyedropper applies 5 to 7 drops into your nasal.

Herbal Steam Inhalation

Steam helps to moisten and soothe irritated passages.

It is a powerful and less costly way of reducing respiratory infection cause by excess mucus that lodged in your cavities.

A more therapeutic way is to inhale herbal steam generated by adding herbs to boiling water.

This hydrotherapy is easy to implement and works well to help you breathe normally and to discharge mucus faster.

Its ease of use has gain popularity as a home remedies to relieve all types of respiratory conditions.

You can boil any herbs that have anti-bacterial and anti-microbial properties or those that contain menthols. Our aim here is to get rid of infection by unblocking the nose.

If you do this two to four times per day you will start to see improvement in your symptoms.

Peppermint, eucalyptus, wintergreen, ginger, thyme, sage, oregano are example of the types of herbs you can use.

But you don't have to restrict yourself to herbs only as some of my readers add essential oil such as oregano and eucalyptus and inhale the vapors.

I do think this works far better than the extracting the roots and leaves of the plants with water.

Thin and Drain Mucus

One best way to thin mucus and promote drainage is to drink plenty of fluids.

Drinking and inhaling steam from herbal tea is the fastest and easiest way to thin and loosen infected mucus. Do this several times a day followed by blowing out excess secretions to prevent blockage.

Sinus Rinse and Irrigation To Promote Drainage

Rinsing sinuses may seems uncomfortable for some people but this technique if use correctly few times a day can actually reduce secretions and remove infected mucus completely.

The aim here is to flush out the sinus cavities, loosen stubborn mucus and to keep the membrane lining clean and clear.

A simple and yet effective method is to spray saline directly into your nose. This salt solution with anti-microbial properties can kill most micro-organisms that reside in the cavities.

You can make your own saline wash solution at home with unprocessed salt which is better for your inflamed lining.

Saline Mist

Unlike steam and rinse, using a device such as a vaporizer to emit fine mist directly into your nose is another fast and effective way to soothe your stuffy nose, open nasal, reduces congestion and to promote drainage.

Taking Decongestant

Decongestants are often taken to break up painful congestion.

There are many natural decongestants that work as well as OTC (over-the-counter) medicines without the side effects.

A good example is onion, Japanese wasabi, steam as mentioned above or any spicy foods.

Cutting a raw onion has an immediate effect on thick mucus and also get your tears flowing.

Wash Hands

Keeping hands clean is an important practice to prevent the spread of germs and other viruses.

And when your sinuses are bad, you should wash hands after blowing your nose each time to stop bacteria from re-entering the nasal passage and other parts of your body.

Remember to throw away infected tissues immediately after use.

Consider Pressure

Apply gentle pressure with the pads of your fingers on both sides of your nose and between your eyebrows can alleviate pain and improve blood circulation to the membrane that lined the cavities.

Use Warm Compress

A warm compress when place over infected sinus region can prove to be effective as it help to reduce facial pain, headaches and thin mucus in congested cavities for easy expulsion.

You can either steam or place a warm towel over your face. I like to add few drops of eucalyptus oils or menthol for that extra effect.

Besides warm towel, you can also crush fresh ginger roots and applied on your forehead to stimulate circulation.

Taking sinus antibiotics are often an important part of a therapy especially when your sinus becomes infected. It is often prescribed by your doctor based on the bacterial that are most likely to cause the infection.

And if your sinus discomfort is caused by the common cold, then taking antibiotics have no effect at all. Cold and flu are caused by viruses therefore they do not response to antibiotics
.
In fact, I find it extremely difficult to distinguish bacterial sinusitis from viral sinusitis (the common cold) during the first 5 days. I am sure many people can relate to the same problem as me.

What are antibiotics?
Antibiotics are designed to kill bacteria or prevent their growth and taking them helps to shorten the course of an infection and prevent complications.

However, inappropriate and excessive use may lead to the development of resistant bacteria which are difficult to eradicate.

Unfortunately, antibiotic resistance has been a major public health problem around the globe.

There are two types of antibiotics; narrow and broad spectrum. So which one should you take?

Here's a simple guide to distinguish the two. Narrow spectrum antibiotics are effective on a few types of bacteria whereas broad spectrum attack a wide range of bacteria.

If your sinus infection does not go away after taking antibiotics, then your doctor may prescribed broad spectrum antibiotics.

It is important that you follow your doctor's instructions and do not become addicted to them.

Although antibiotics are good at killing bacterial infection in your sinuses, I should also point out that it is equally important to address the underlying cause of your sinus problems so that you can eliminate your symptoms completely.

Some people are just too afraid to go off medication simply because they are afraid that their infection can come back in full force making them very sick.

You need to understand that not all antibiotics or sinus medications can prevent or clear your sinusitis completely. In fact some antibiotics can make your sinus worst. You need to talk to your doctor to raise your concern so that the right sinus antibiotics can be prescribed to treat your infection.

Possible side effects
As with any medications, depending on individual health, antibiotics can cause side effects.

One such side effect which you may have felt after using sinus antibiotics are that your body simply cannot defense against other non-bacterial types of infections.

Another one is allergic reaction ranging from a rash on the skin, swollen mouth to breathing difficulties. If you experience allergic reactions then it is important to stop taking the drugs immediately and seek professional advice.

In other circumstances, they can destroy the good bacteria in your gut with symptoms such as stomach pain, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Yet some people experience fever and joint pain and in some women the development of vagina yeast infections.

One useful solution to help replenish the bacterial in your gut is to consume yogurt with active culture or as capsules.

There are other things you need to do on your part during the healing process so that your problems do not flare up and this include exercise, eating healthy diet, avoid pollutants, dust and many more.

Well, the truth is you simply cannot rely on sinus antibiotics for a long period of time. They will work against you and are most likely to become ineffective in the future when you require them to heal other infection other than your sinuses.

Therefore, it is very important you also learn how to treat your sinusitis naturally so that you do not need to rely constantly on sinus antibiotics for your sudden sinus attack.

When you come down with cold and worst sinus problems, which do you choose conventional or natural sinusitis treatments?

This is always going to be a debatable topic regardless of which illness you may have; acne, eczema, sinusitis, yeast infection etc…

The treatment for cold and mild sinusitis is similar because very often you experience the same symptoms until the viruses start to hit into your sinus cavity.
You'll know you have sinus problems when you feel pain and pressure around the face and nose region.

To go towards natural sinusitis treatments or conventional approach really depends on what you believe. Some people feel more comfortable when they consult their doctor and find that taking medication is the best way to combat sinus problems. In reality, they tend to work faster to clear the symptoms.

On the other hand, there are people who swear by natural remedies and apparently there are huge followers on healing through alternative and holistic remedies.

Well, everybody is entitled to raise their opinion.

Let me share my thought with you. I do think that natural sinusitis treatments are always better, but don't think that you can never combine the two (conventional) together.

But if you've tried natural treatments and you don't seem to get rid of your sinus problems especially sinus infection then I strongly suggests that a visit to your doctor is the best way. And also if your symptoms are chronic, an advice from a doctor or ENT (ear, nose and throat) specialist is perhaps the right approach.

With that being said, it doesn't mean that you stop taking natural remedy. Natural treatments will always be part of your healing process, for example steam inhalation helps to open your sinus cavity and thin mucus to help you breathe better and massage to improve circulation.

Even when you're taking prescription medications, you'll still need simple natural treatments to help you recover so that your sinusitis doesn't return in full force once you stop the medications.

Conventional medications are given as OTC (over the counter) or prescription. Some of the common drugs being use include paracetamol to relieve pain, antihistamine for allergies, nasal spray, decongestant and corticosteroids.

Antibiotics are often prescribed for bacterial infection and they have to be under the direction of an experience health care provider.

You will need to be aware of the side effects that come with using medications. Also most medications work by clearing the symptoms but rarely they work on healing the root cause of your sinus problems.

Natural treatments are safer but it does take a longer time for it to work. As we belong to a generation of 'FAST' and 'Take Away', we want everything to work instantly.

This is not going to happen when you take or use natural remedy.

But there are some natural treatments such as sipping a hot chamomile tea does make you feel much better instantly. And how about massaging on your sinus region when you have that sinus congestion?

Yes, all these are what I classified as natural treatments. I'm sure you'll find great relief after using them.

Frankly speaking, sometime I am also feeling slightly impatient with natural treatments. Simple home remedy such as making my own saline spray or sinus wash does help to ease my sinuses and salt water gargle for sinus related sore throat.

I have many natural treatments in place for my sudden sinus attack and you can find them in my book.

Once you manage to find the cause to your sinus problems, then you can apply the right treatment to clear your sinusitis.

For example if allergies are the cause, then you should avoid allergens in the environment, pollens, pet dander and mold. You will need anti-histamine to reduce your allergies (conventional method) and nettle, licorice and vitamin C if you use natural treatments.

Do you see the important of looking into the underlying cause to your sinus problems?

I have been asked many times especially during the cold and flu season on how to deal with sinusitis, commonly known as sinus problems.

This is a good thing as everyone comes down with some type of sinus problems at least once in their life time. Well, it doesn't mean you're unhealthy, yet I have seen many people including athletes complain about sinusitis.

Before you learn how to deal with sinusitis you must learn how to recognize the symptoms. It is similar to the symptoms of cold and flu; runny nose, headache and stuffy nose.

But if you experience something like pain and pressure around the face and nose region, nasal congestion, clear or colored mucus discharge, throat irritation and in chronic case, a post nasal drip, then this is clearly the sign of sinus problems.

You have two choices; you can go on medication or deal with it naturally.

For some unknown reason I often like to tough it out and let nature take its course. But not many of you are like me able to tolerant any sinus discomfort.

If you’re prone to sinusitis, then there are a few things you can do to prevent it from getting worst.

Give alcohol a miss, the reason I suggest this is because alcohol dehydrates and cause swelling to your mucus membrane.

Drink plenty of clear fluid or my favorite chicken broth. This will help to stop mucus from becoming too thick, which is an ideal breeding ground for bacteria to thrive. Sinus infection is something we really want to prevent as they can lead to complication.

Eat plenty of garlic, this is what a my friend has done as it helps to break up mucus which some people use the fancy term 'mucolytic' and also garlic is a natural antibiotic.

Another way of breaking mucus is to eat spicy food. I'm not asking you to eat chili on its own, try to be a little creative and add it into your cooking. Perhaps you might want to add a few slice of ginger and onion into your signature dish or whip up a Mexican chili beef.

If you want to try herbal stuff, then I suggest you try Echinacea. It is a cold and flu herb and is available as tincture (liquid extract) and tablets.

Vitamin C is always the first form of treatment during the cold and flu season to help your body fight infection. Take 1-2 tablets a day as over dosage of this vitamin may cause dry skin.

And if you have sore throat, try gargle with salt solution.

How about nasal congestion?

This is often the number one discomfort most of us encounter and it can make you feel terrible. There are several ways to solve this problem, one way is to use an ancient device called the Neti pot.

How do you do this?

You pour saline solution through one side of your nostril (say you start with your right side) and gently blow out the water and mucus on the other nostril and vice versa.

Don’t know or can't find a Neti pot? A simple trick is to use a small teapot.
Another way is to rub peppermint oil or the cheap Vicks Vapor-rub in the nasal cavities.

These are some of the methods which you can try to deal with your sinusitis if you haven’t done anything about it.

There are various sinus remedies in the home and in the pharmacy which are available to clear your sinus problems.

It really depends on the severity of your symptoms. While modern science and medicine may provide solution to relieve our sinusitis, most people nowadays have slowly turn to natural of old folks sinus remedies to fight nasal congestion, sinus pain and cold-like symptoms.

Sinus Congestion Remedies
Steam inhalation is one of the popular remedy often use to relief sinus congestion. The inhalation of steam produced by boiling water with a few drop of essential oil such as eucalyptus proved effective for a short time.

Another effective remedy is to place saline solution into a nasal inhaler.

Yet there is another natural way to dilute your mucus to clear congestion. Simply mix a teaspoon of cayenne pepper powder with hot water and drink two to three cups a day. This old folk remedy is not for everyone but for those in desperation.

Some people have found success with this "super hot" treatment which clear their congested nasal instantly.

Other sinus remedies available over the counter include nasal spray decongestants and pain relievers.

Sinus Infection Remedies
Thyme is a herb that is known to clear respiratory infections as it has strong antiseptic properties. You can take this herb in the form of tea. Just add half of a teaspoon for a start into a cup and pour hot water. Steep for few minutes or longer and drink it two or three times a day for a few days.

While this herb remedy may clear your symptoms, it certainly will not clear up your infection caused by bacteria. If your infection does not seems to go away after a few days you should see a doctor. Sometime an antibiotic may be necessary to help you overcome your sinus infection.

Unfortunately, antibiotics does work to kill good and bad bacteria which is harmful for your health.

With that being said, neglecting to treat a sinus infection may lead to more serious conditions leading to chronic sinusitis.

Chronic sinusitis can last for more then twelve weeks or longer.

Sinus Pain and Pressure Remedies
A massage is an easy and effective way to relieve sinus facial pain and pressure. A simple technique you can use immediately is to press both thumbs firmly on the side of the nose and hold for 5 to 10 seconds. Repeat this action until you achieve temporary relieve from your sinus problems.

This action help to improve circulation and release pressure in the congested area.

Keep your nose moist
Dry air has a great disadvantage for someone with sinus problems. A simple device such as a vaporizer can provide some relieve.The emission of fine warm mists do help to open the nasal cavities and eliminate discomfort especially in the night.

Herbs for sinus is an effective way to relieve your sinusitis if you understand their healing properties and applications.

For example, it is completely useless to for herbs such as St John's Wort to work on your sinuses. This particular herb is used for depression.

As billions of people in United States and the world are affected by some form of sinus problems daily, many sufferers are looking for ways to overcome their sinusitis naturally.

Sinus problems usually response well to herb with anti-inflammatory, antiviral, anti-microbial and other healing properties for catarrh conditions of the upper respiratory tract.

If you want to clear your sinuses, here are five herbs for sinus which you can try to clear your acute and chronic sinusitis:

Echinacea

Echinacea is popularly known as a cold and flu herb. Native to Americans, it kills viruses that are responsible for causing the cold symptoms leading to sinus problems. It is available in tablets and capsules and should not be taken if you are allergic to certain plant such as ragweed.

Echinacea is also not suitable for patients taking immuno-suppressant medications

Peppermint

Peppermint helps to reduce irritation in the mucous membranes within the sinuses. It is useful if you have the sore throat. This herb is taken like a tea, simply place half of a teaspoon leaves in a cup and pour hot water to brew. Most people find soothing relief in their throat and the active constituents also act to open the nasal cavities in some cases.

Goldenseal

Studies showed that Goldenseal help to improve overall health and is also useful for treating sinus infection. This bitter herb contains hydrastine and berberine which when taken both topical and oral help the body to fight infection as well as sore throat and reduce congestion.

The tincture in diluted form is an excellent mouthwash to fight bacteria that cause bad breathe.

Unfortunately, like most herbs it should be taken for a prolonged period to see results.

Golden Rod

This western herb is useful to fight influenza, the inflammation of the nasal passage, sinus congestion, allergic rhinitis and other sinus related problems.

Cayenne

You will be surprise that Cayenne is one of the oldest cultivated plants on earth. It is widely used in South and Central American as medicine and spices.

It has been used to treat acute colds, catarrh and sore and as a stimulant to improve the circulatory system. Other uses include the removal of toxin, cold and congested tissues.

It is a traditional home remedy for colds, earache and tonsillitis in Mexico. And in some parts of Chile, the infusion is taken internally to reduce the symptoms of headache.

Besides using this herb as a remedy, it is useful to add into food to promote sinus drainage.

Please note that cayenne may interact with ACE (angiotensin-converting enzyme) inhibitors. These are a group of drugs use for treating hypertension or high blood pressure.

The above herbs for sinus may work for some. Some individual may find short term relief whereas others may need to take it for a period of time.